The Ellucian XE architecture will introduce new APIs and Web services that wrap around the core enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. The new API and Web services are intended to make it easier for educational institutions to integrate with new and existing software solutions from Ellucian, its partners, and other third party products. Automated release tools and configuration management are also intended to make it faster and easier for customers to provision, implement, and update the technologies.

The Ellucian XE architecture will also introduce more points of access to the ERP systems, including self-service portals for students, faculty, staff, and parents; mobile applications that are optimized for the small form factor of handheld devices; improved user interfaces for administrators and power users; and cloud applications.

With the shift to the new architecture, Ellucian is moving to an agile development philosophy that will enable the company to develop new features for its administrative systems more quickly than before. Ellucian's customer and partner communities will also have new opportunities "to guide and participate in ongoing development, services, and common technology futures," according to information released by the company.

"When we launched Ellucian, we committed to serve our customers better, protect their investments, and strengthen the portfolio of technology solutions they need to navigate change in this dynamic environment," said John F. Speer III, president and CEO of Ellucian, in a prepared statement. "Through Ellucian XE we are delivering on these promises by extending the value of the administrative core through a rich, extensible, and deeply integrated ecosystem of solutions and services that address diverse needs across the campus community."

Further information about Ellucian XE is available on the Ellucian site.

About the Author

Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at leilameyer@gmail.com.